This course examines contemporary issues in U.S. foreign policy, focusing primarily on a series of regional case studies including the Persian Gulf (Iran and Iraq); the Middle East and North Africa; U.S. and Japan, the Koreas & East Asia; Transatlantic Relations; and the U.S. in Central Asia (Afghanistan/Pakistan). Although the course is organized on a regional basis, we will explore a number of recurring themes including: nuclear proliferation; the problems of weak and failing states; relations with China and Russia; terrorism and counterterrorism; resource competition; the importance of culture and national identity; and the economics of national security.